Alternate choices for 2014 Emmy Award nominations

Published 9:56 pm, Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Image 1of/59

Caption

Close

Image 1 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Drama: THE AMERICANS - I'll resist saying which "usual suspects" should drop off the often-uninspired nomination lists, but whatever it takes, Emmys, to place this show among the chosen. So rich, so rewarding, so smart, so perfect an evocation of the early '80s. If Russian spies truly lived among us, passing themselves as our neighbors while plotting our downfall, it would truly be worth it to have watched this show. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Drama: THE AMERICANS - I'll resist saying which "usual suspects" should drop off the often-uninspired nomination lists, but whatever it takes, Emmys, to place this ... more

Image 2 of 59

BATES MOTEL - Sure, this could survive on Vera Farmiga's wigged-out and wonderful performance alone, but it doesn't have to. This contemporary prequel to "Psycho" got only more twisted and tangled in its second season. One great thing: Max Thieriot's shift from surly interloper to rootable antihero. And the smart decisions to make the Bates family just a part of the demented "Twins Peaks"-like town kept yielding many rewards. less

BATES MOTEL - Sure, this could survive on Vera Farmiga's wigged-out and wonderful performance alone, but it doesn't have to. This contemporary prequel to "Psycho" got only more twisted and tangled in its second ... more

Image 3 of 59

THE GOOD WIFE - Missteps in season four cost the show a nomination, but the course correction to end all course corrections that was season five, should restore sanity to the world. Seriously, what show has its best - and I mean BEST - season five years in? It's one of the best shows on all of television - network, basic cable, pay cable, online, anywhere. And it took leaps and left turns and impossible chances, each one miraculously paying off a million-fold. Plus, it continues to be the most adept program at utilizing and analyzing technology, social media and pop culture. All this on a CBS show, no less! less

THE GOOD WIFE - Missteps in season four cost the show a nomination, but the course correction to end all course corrections that was season five, should restore sanity to the world. Seriously, what show has its ... more

ORPHAN BLACK - Science fiction? A feminist manifesto? A rumination on technology run amok? An ever-twisting conspiracy thriller? A new take on family drama? Yes, to all of these and more, but who cares? What's most important is that "Orphan Black" is maybe the most fun, most entertaining, most surprisingly heartfelt show on right now. And it revolves around a star turn(s) for the ages from the hypnotic, enchanting and supernaturally gifted Tatiana Maslany. less

ORPHAN BLACK - Science fiction? A feminist manifesto? A rumination on technology run amok? An ever-twisting conspiracy thriller? A new take on family drama? Yes, to all of these and more, but who cares? What's ... more

Image 5 of 59

BROADCHURCH - Alas, this British import shown on BBC America is ineligible for Emmys. But that doesn't stop me from wishing it were. A small town investigation into a young boy's murder turns into one of the most poignant, shattering and chilling events of the season. The torment of the boy's grieving family is equal to that of Rosie Larsen's on the first season of "The Killing." And it has much to say on the power of media manipulations and mob mentality, as well as how much we really know our neighbors, or families and ourselves. I guess we can hope for tangential Emmys when FOX airs its Americanized remake, "Gracepoint," next season. You might say "why does this need to be remade," but its from the same producers, has one of the same leads, David Tennant, and includes such talented folks as Anna Gunn, Michael Pena, Nick Nolte and Jacki Weaver. less

BROADCHURCH - Alas, this British import shown on BBC America is ineligible for Emmys. But that doesn't stop me from wishing it were. A small town investigation into a young boy's murder turns into one of the ... more

Image 6 of 59

THE RETURNED - Another import unable to compete, this one from France, is destined for a stateside remake. But there is no way it will ever match the mood, the atmosphere, the power of this very original original. One by one, recently and more distantly deceased people return to their French mountain town with no knowledge of their demises or the time that has passed. I've never before seen a show so suffused with both darkness and light, s\despair and hope. (Like I said, French.) It has stayed with me more than most other things I watched all year. If eligible - and if I were a voter - it would definitely be in my top five. less

THE RETURNED - Another import unable to compete, this one from France, is destined for a stateside remake. But there is no way it will ever match the mood, the atmosphere, the power of this very original ... more

Image 7 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Actress in a Drama: JULIANNA MARGULIES, THE GOOD WIFE - It seems beyond silly that Margulies has to be even be considered an underdog in this category, but a below-par season four relegated her and "The Good Wife" to also-ran status last year at the Emmys. And it's notoriously hard to get back on the ballot after you've been off. An amazing season five and soaring performances from Margulies should do the trick, though. What a tricky role she has: not the flashiest, often passive, the calm center in a many storms. But watch from the beginning and see an evolution of character rarely seen on TV. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Actress in a Drama: JULIANNA MARGULIES, THE GOOD WIFE - It seems beyond silly that Margulies has to be even be considered an underdog in this category, but a ... more

Image 8 of 59

TATIANA MASLANY, ORPHAN BLACK - The sheer audacity and gimmickry of what she is attempting - playing eight clones (and counting) - would shoot her to the top of the Emmy list, you would think. But the talent and skill Maslany exhibits, subtly defining each "sister" as her own authentic and different person is nothing short of superhuman. She truly cannot be of this world, she's that stinking good. less

TATIANA MASLANY, ORPHAN BLACK - The sheer audacity and gimmickry of what she is attempting - playing eight clones (and counting) - would shoot her to the top of the Emmy list, you would think. But the talent ... more

Image 9 of 59

KERI RUSSELL, THE AMERICANS - The fact that we root for Russian spies impersonating American suburbanites and infiltrating our most important places is testament enough to the work Russell and her cohorts do here. But she also has to do it while playing several different characters, wearing many costumes and wigs and having intimate relations - or choosing not to - with unsuspecting marks. Oh, and she also skillfully creates a portrait of a die-hard enemy of the state who also finds herself actually falling in love with the man posing as her husband and bumping up against the temptations of Reagan's America. less

KERI RUSSELL, THE AMERICANS - The fact that we root for Russian spies impersonating American suburbanites and infiltrating our most important places is testament enough to the work Russell and her cohorts do ... more

Photo: Copyright 2014, FX Networks. All Rights Reserved.

Image 10 of 59

OLIVIA COLMAN, BROADCHURCH - Just like the show itself, Colman from "Broadchurch" is apparently ineligible. What a pity. Her small-town cop investigating a horrific murder that slowly draws closer to home is masterful. less

OLIVIA COLMAN, BROADCHURCH - Just like the show itself, Colman from "Broadchurch" is apparently ineligible. What a pity. Her small-town cop investigating a horrific murder that slowly draws closer to home is ... more

Photo: Patrick Redmond, Photograph: Patrick Redmond/ITV

Image 11 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Lead Actor in a Drama: CHARLES ESTEN, NASHVILLE - No matter how soapy the plots get on "Nashville," Esten's work, dramatically and musically, remains a revelation. If you only knew him as "the other singing guy" on previous incarnations of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?", you might not even recognize him here. As good as Connie Britton and Hayden Panittiere are as dueling divas, Esten remains the vital cog in this machinery. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Lead Actor in a Drama: CHARLES ESTEN, NASHVILLE - No matter how soapy the plots get on "Nashville," Esten's work, dramatically and musically, remains a revelation. If you ... more

Image 12 of 59

WOODY HARRELSON, TRUE DETECTIVE - With all the justly deserved attention going man of the year Matthew McConaughey's way, there's no reason not to reward his "True Detective" co-star with at least a nomination. It was a two-man show and Woody's work is top-notch, too. (Quick question, however: Both Harrelson and McConaughey are eligible in the drama category, even though HBO has said season two will have new characters and plots, much like "American Horror Story" and "Fargo," which compete in the miniseries category. What gives?) less

WOODY HARRELSON, TRUE DETECTIVE - With all the justly deserved attention going man of the year Matthew McConaughey's way, there's no reason not to reward his "True Detective" co-star with at least a nomination. ... more

Image 13 of 59

FREDDIE HIGHMORE, BATES MOTEL - Vera Farmiga might get all the love for her portrayal of Norma, Norman Bates' mm (and she should), but Highmore as his mother's best friend is riveting. Even if he had only been cast because of his resemblance to a young Anthony Perkins, he would have exceeded all expectations. And season two let us catch glimpses of the future "Psycho" we come to know and love. less

FREDDIE HIGHMORE, BATES MOTEL - Vera Farmiga might get all the love for her portrayal of Norma, Norman Bates' mm (and she should), but Highmore as his mother's best friend is riveting. Even if he had only been ... more

Image 14 of 59

TIMOTHY OLYPHANT, JUSTIFIED - An unsatisfactory season isn't enough to dim the performance of Olyphant as one of the coolest cats on TV, Federal Marshall Rayal Givens. His ambivalence about fatherhood and reuniting with his ex-wife and his potentially bridge-burning actions at work were just more opportunities for Olyphant to dig deeper and show even more sides to the kick-ass Kentuckian. less

TIMOTHY OLYPHANT, JUSTIFIED - An unsatisfactory season isn't enough to dim the performance of Olyphant as one of the coolest cats on TV, Federal Marshall Rayal Givens. His ambivalence about fatherhood and ... more

Image 15 of 59

MATTHEW RHYS, THE AMERICANS -- Jon Hamm is loooong overdue, Bryan Cranston deserves to go out on top and Matthew McConaughey is more than all right, all right, all right. But what I wouldn't give to hear Rhys' name called on Thursday. In the first season, his performance as a wavering but dedicated Russian spy knocked the wind out of me, having only known him from the soapy family drama "Brothers and Sisters." In season two, he's even better. I don't think we've even begun to see the depths of his talents. And if he submits the episode where he unleashes all his rage on his teenage daughter, he's assured a nomination, if not a win. less

MATTHEW RHYS, THE AMERICANS -- Jon Hamm is loooong overdue, Bryan Cranston deserves to go out on top and Matthew McConaughey is more than all right, all right, all right. But what I wouldn't give to hear Rhys' ... more

Photo: Craig Blankenhorn, Blankenhorn, Craig

Image 16 of 59

DAVID TENNANT, BROADCHURCH - Again, Tennant is not eligible for an Emmy, but he surely would receive a nod if he could for his seemingly cold and humorless inspector whose drive to find a boy's killer is more than just his job, it's his shot at personal redemption. less

DAVID TENNANT, BROADCHURCH - Again, Tennant is not eligible for an Emmy, but he surely would receive a nod if he could for his seemingly cold and humorless inspector whose drive to find a boy's killer is more ... more

Photo: Picasa

Image 17 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama: BETSY BRANDT, BREAKING BAD - Brandt's Marie had often been comic relief in the series' earlier seasons, with her purple fetish and kleptomania. But the lead up to the epic finale found her channeling her inner tiger and it was great to watch. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama: BETSY BRANDT, BREAKING BAD - Brandt's Marie had often been comic relief in the series' earlier seasons, with her purple fetish and ... more

Image 18 of 59

LAURA FRASER, BREAKING BAD - Fraser's jittery and lethal Lydia was such a surprising and welcome jolt of energy during "Breaking Bad"'s final season. She made the drug dealing middlewoman a character you never knew was necessary, but soon came to realize was vital. less

LAURA FRASER, BREAKING BAD - Fraser's jittery and lethal Lydia was such a surprising and welcome jolt of energy during "Breaking Bad"'s final season. She made the drug dealing middlewoman a character you never ... more

Image 19 of 59

ANNABETH GISH, THE BRIDGE - There's is something just so inexplicably appealing about the combination of role and actress here. Gish is all grown up from that girl she played in "Mystic Pizza," and the woman she plays - a Texas trophy widow who inherits her husband's money and his drug pipeline connections - feels alive and real. less

ANNABETH GISH, THE BRIDGE - There's is something just so inexplicably appealing about the combination of role and actress here. Gish is all grown up from that girl she played in "Mystic Pizza," and the woman ... more

Image 20 of 59

ANNET MAHENDRU, THE AMERICANS - I'll be honest, I never expected Mahendru to make it past the first season. She was the perfect eventual casualty of the show's Cold War machinations. But survive she did, and in season two the double (triple?) Russian agent has become an indispensable part of the plot, playing everyone against each other in an honest effort to stay alive, nothing more. And Mahendru wonderfully shows you everything about how Nina's inner struggles without revealing what it is she actually wants. less

ANNET MAHENDRU, THE AMERICANS - I'll be honest, I never expected Mahendru to make it past the first season. She was the perfect eventual casualty of the show's Cold War machinations. But survive she did, and in ... more

Image 21 of 59

MELISSA MCBRIDE, THE WALKING DEAD - McBride's Carol has always been a quiet, passive presence on "The Walking Dead," befitting her entrance in the pilot as a numb abused wife. But here evolution into the pragmatic and take-charge leader she is in season five was both credible and inevitable, and beautifully played by McBride. And her work throughout the year, particularly in the episode "The Grove" - which includes one of the most shocking and shattering scenes ever put on TV - should put her on the awards radar from here on out. less

MELISSA MCBRIDE, THE WALKING DEAD - McBride's Carol has always been a quiet, passive presence on "The Walking Dead," befitting her entrance in the pilot as a numb abused wife. But here evolution into the ... more

Image 22 of 59

BEX TAYLOR-KLAUS, THE KILLING - Hands down, one of the most out-of-nowhere, heartbreaking, crushing performances of the past season. As a teenage runaway bouncing around the homeless community in Seattle, Taylor-Klaus' Bullet is all attitude and hard-edged surface, but when she reveals her inner turmoil and softness, it's devastating. less

BEX TAYLOR-KLAUS, THE KILLING - Hands down, one of the most out-of-nowhere, heartbreaking, crushing performances of the past season. As a teenage runaway bouncing around the homeless community in Seattle, ... more

Image 23 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama: MATT CZUCHRY, THE GOOD WIFE - Breaking out on his own with a start-up law firm, bonding with Alicia, and (finally!) entering into a relationship-of-sorts with Kalinda did wonders not just for Cary Agos, but also his portrayer. Czuchry skillfully showed that Cary was no longer the callow and cocky attorney of past seasons, but was now a force to be reckoned with. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama: MATT CZUCHRY, THE GOOD WIFE - Breaking out on his own with a start-up law firm, bonding with Alicia, and (finally!) entering into a ... more

Photo: David Giesbrecht

Image 24 of 59

NOAH EMMERICH, THE AMERICANS - Emmerich has been so good in so many things for so many years that it's easy to overlook his understated talents. Let's hope the Emmy nominating committee doesn't. His Stan Beeman took several hits this season: killing an innocent man; watching his marriage fall apart; getting his boss suspended; falling for his double agent, not realizing she was playing him; getting blackmailed into betraying his country. And Emmerich made each one into an opportunity to soar. It's a credit to his skills that the show's central conceit from the pilot - an FBI agent investigating Russian spies in the U.S. unknowingly moves next door to a couple of them masquerading as the model American marrieds - is so beside the point now. less

NOAH EMMERICH, THE AMERICANS - Emmerich has been so good in so many things for so many years that it's easy to overlook his understated talents. Let's hope the Emmy nominating committee doesn't. His Stan Beeman ... more

Photo: Craig Blankenhorn

Image 25 of 59

JORDAN GAVARIS, ORPHAN BLACK - While it is true to say that "Orphan Black" is Tatiana Maslany's show (and Tatiana Maslany's .... and Tatiana Maslany's .... and ....), but all the clone sisters would get nowhere without their brother, Felix. The bridge connecting so many plots and characters, Felix is essential, and Gavaris makes him magical. Subverting stereotypes and cliches while simultaneously playing with them, he creates a character we've never seen before. And somehow he manages to have a separate and unique chemistry with each of the clones with which he interacts. less

JORDAN GAVARIS, ORPHAN BLACK - While it is true to say that "Orphan Black" is Tatiana Maslany's show (and Tatiana Maslany's .... and Tatiana Maslany's .... and ....), but all the clone sisters would get nowhere ... more

Image 26 of 59

WALTON GOGGINS, BREAKING BAD - What more can I say about Goggins' Boyd Crowder? He remains and always will be one of my favorite characters of all time. Season five pushed the always in control Boyd beyond his limits, and the desperate and vulnerable notes Goggins played were dazzling. less

WALTON GOGGINS, BREAKING BAD - What more can I say about Goggins' Boyd Crowder? He remains and always will be one of my favorite characters of all time. Season five pushed the always in control Boyd beyond his ... more

Image 27 of 59

MATTHEW GOODE, THE GOOD WIFE - With only a handful of episodes and a truly uphill battle, Goode took a "good" person and turned him from a shell-shocked victim into a suitable potential love interest for Alicia and further into a welcome and intriguing new addition. But really, all it took is one great drug-addled hospital scene to put him here. less

MATTHEW GOODE, THE GOOD WIFE - With only a handful of episodes and a truly uphill battle, Goode took a "good" person and turned him from a shell-shocked victim into a suitable potential love interest for Alicia ... more

Image 28 of 59

MATTHEW LILLARD, THE BRIDGE - This dark FX drama (are there any other kind?) may have polarized the masses: great critical notices and a Peabody Award marched side by side with a massive dislike for lead Diane Kruger's offbeat portrayal of a detective with Asperger's. But Matthew Lillard was scintillating as a cynical and self-loathing reporter who finds comfort from booze and drugs. He's a long way from "Scream" and "Scooby Doo" territory. Lillard expertly makes you like an unlikable character and feel his pain. less

MATTHEW LILLARD, THE BRIDGE - This dark FX drama (are there any other kind?) may have polarized the masses: great critical notices and a Peabody Award marched side by side with a massive dislike for lead Diane ... more

Image 29 of 59

DEAN NORRIS, BREAKING BAD - Just as his DEA agent Hank matured from a buffoonish blowhard into a hero who exits in a tragically epic fashion, so too should Norris go from previously unnominated to supporting actor Emmy possibility. You know he deserves it. He always found the humanity in Hank even back when he was an unlikable antagonist. The final season gave Norris the chance to shine that much brighter. less

DEAN NORRIS, BREAKING BAD - Just as his DEA agent Hank matured from a buffoonish blowhard into a hero who exits in a tragically epic fashion, so too should Norris go from previously unnominated to supporting ... more

Image 30 of 59

BOB ODENKIRK, BREAKING BAD - Why not start off Odenkirk's "Breaking Bad" spin-off with a nomination for his always entertaining shyster lawyer, Saul Goodman, in the show's killer final season? Of course next year he would have to compete in the comedy lead category, wouldn't he? Eh, why not; after all, Ed Asner did it in reverse years ago. less

BOB ODENKIRK, BREAKING BAD - Why not start off Odenkirk's "Breaking Bad" spin-off with a nomination for his always entertaining shyster lawyer, Saul Goodman, in the show's killer final season? Of course next ... more

Photo: Ursula Coyote

Image 31 of 59

JESSE PLEMONS, BREAKING BAD - Yes, Aaron Paul might own this category for one last time, but "Breaking Bad" offers a plethora of options when it comes to supporting actors. Plemons has continually been praised for his work here as the most genial and baby-faced sociopath you ever met, so why not a nomination to go with it? less

JESSE PLEMONS, BREAKING BAD - Yes, Aaron Paul might own this category for one last time, but "Breaking Bad" offers a plethora of options when it comes to supporting actors. Plemons has continually been praised ... more

Image 32 of 59

NORMAN REEDUS, THE WALKING DEAD - He's already one of the coolest characters on TV - and the possessor of countless female viewers' hearts - but Reedus brought new dimensions to the crossbow-wielding zombie apocalypse survivor this season. As Daryl got separated from his group, Reedus showed how much the man has changed and how much he didn't want to ever return to his "ultimate loner" status. less

NORMAN REEDUS, THE WALKING DEAD - He's already one of the coolest characters on TV - and the possessor of countless female viewers' hearts - but Reedus brought new dimensions to the crossbow-wielding zombie ... more

Image 33 of 59

PETER SARSGAARD, THE KILLING - Whew! I am still feeling this one. Whatever the faults of "The Killing," Sarsgaard was most certainly not one of them. In fact, casting him in the show's third season upped just everything about it. His performance as a convicted killer on death row as he approaches his execution date is haunting, harrowing and heartbreaking. One for the books. (I love you, Aaron Paul, but I'm kind of rooting for a Sarsgaard win.) less

PETER SARSGAARD, THE KILLING - Whew! I am still feeling this one. Whatever the faults of "The Killing," Sarsgaard was most certainly not one of them. In fact, casting him in the show's third season upped just ... more

Photo: Photos : Carole Segal

Image 34 of 59

SAM UNDERWOOD, THE FOLLOWING - As ludicrous as much of "The Following" is, the addition of Sam Underwood as psychotic twins Mark and Luke was a masterstroke. What was it with multiple roles (e.g. "Orphan Black," "The Americans," etc.) this past season? Underwood carefully delineated the brothers' personalities, was creepy as all get out and injected welcome notes of camp into the downbeat show. less

SAM UNDERWOOD, THE FOLLOWING - As ludicrous as much of "The Following" is, the addition of Sam Underwood as psychotic twins Mark and Luke was a masterstroke. What was it with multiple roles (e.g. "Orphan ... more

Image 35 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternatives picks for Best Comedy: INSIDE AMY SCHUMER - This Comedy Central sketch show got even funnier and sharper in its sophomore season, whether expertly skewering Aaron Sorkin dramas, casting Paul Giamatti as a disappointed God or interviewing 106-year-old women. less

These are C.J.'s alternatives picks for Best Comedy: INSIDE AMY SCHUMER - This Comedy Central sketch show got even funnier and sharper in its sophomore season, whether expertly skewering Aaron Sorkin dramas, ... more

Photo: Comedy Central

Image 36 of 59

KEY & PEELE - Pound for pound, one of the most hilarious and pointed comedies on TV. Says so much in every half hour about where the world is today ..... if you bother to stop laughing long enough to actually, you know, think. less

KEY & PEELE - Pound for pound, one of the most hilarious and pointed comedies on TV. Says so much in every half hour about where the world is today ..... if you bother to stop laughing long enough to actually, ... more

Photo: Picasa

Image 37 of 59

THE MIDDLE - I will never stop stumping for this show. It's one of the most underrated, overlooked, underwatched shows on TV. I hesitate to call it a "family sitcom" because of what that term has come to mean. The cast is note perfect, the writing is spot-on and the real moments of familiar human sentiment are always earned. The best depiction and dissection of middle-class America since "Roseanne." less

THE MIDDLE - I will never stop stumping for this show. It's one of the most underrated, overlooked, underwatched shows on TV. I hesitate to call it a "family sitcom" because of what that term has come to mean. ... more

Photo: Preston Mack, Preston Mack, Photograpjer

Image 38 of 59

THE MINDY PROJECT - Somewhere in this show's first season, it found its groove. In the second, it soared. Breathed new life into the "will they or won't they" conventions in new, funny and surprising ways.

THE MINDY PROJECT - Somewhere in this show's first season, it found its groove. In the second, it soared. Breathed new life into the "will they or won't they" conventions in new, funny and surprising ways.

Image 39 of 59

PARKS AND RECREATION - You've only got one more year to catch this perennially neglected gem. But its penultimate season set it up beautifully: a three-year time jump.

PARKS AND RECREATION - You've only got one more year to catch this perennially neglected gem. But its penultimate season set it up beautifully: a three-year time jump.

Image 40 of 59

PORTLANDIA - All the wigs, facial hair and costumes would only be half as funny and winning without the superb and sublime performances of Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein beneath every one of them. They have created a world you want to return to every year and even if every sketch isn't a gut-buster, it isn't meant to be. less

PORTLANDIA - All the wigs, facial hair and costumes would only be half as funny and winning without the superb and sublime performances of Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein beneath every one of them. They have ... more

Image 41 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Lead Actress in a Comedy: PATRICIA HEATON, THE MIDDLE - OK, I know Heaton was nominated for seven Emmys and won two for "Everybody Loves Raymond," but that's no reason to continually ignore her stellar show and the career-high works she's doing on it. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Lead Actress in a Comedy: PATRICIA HEATON, THE MIDDLE - OK, I know Heaton was nominated for seven Emmys and won two for "Everybody Loves Raymond," but that's no reason to ... more

Image 42 of 59

MARTHA PLIMPTON, RAISING HOPE - Her Dad, Keith Carradine, has a slim chance of getting a miniseries acting nod for "Fargo," so why not make it a family affair and nominate her again - and one last time - for this now-cancelled comedy. The show might be named after the baby, and her father might have started out as the ostensible lead, but Grandma Virginia became the heart and lifeblood of the series. less

MARTHA PLIMPTON, RAISING HOPE - Her Dad, Keith Carradine, has a slim chance of getting a miniseries acting nod for "Fargo," so why not make it a family affair and nominate her again - and one last time - for ... more

Image 43 of 59

AMY POEHLER, PARKS AND RECREATION - What's the woman got to do to win an Emmy? It took a few seasons for the Academy to even recognize her or the show, and both remain Emmy-less. It's going to look even more glaring years from now when Poehler's "Leslie Knope" is universally recognized as one of the TV Characters for the Ages. less

AMY POEHLER, PARKS AND RECREATION - What's the woman got to do to win an Emmy? It took a few seasons for the Academy to even recognize her or the show, and both remain Emmy-less. It's going to look even more ... more

Image 44 of 59

AMY SCHUMER, INSIDE AMY SCHUMER - Schumer has never met a shock value she didn't want to explore or a brow she never wanted to take lower, humor-wise, but somehow that makes her comedy even deeper. What she does in these sketches and stand-up routines makes you long to see what she can do with a more straightforward role. less

AMY SCHUMER, INSIDE AMY SCHUMER - Schumer has never met a shock value she didn't want to explore or a brow she never wanted to take lower, humor-wise, but somehow that makes her comedy even deeper. What she ... more

Image 45 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Lead Actor in a Comedy: FRED ARMISEN, PORTLANDIA - What grew tired after years on "Saturday Night Live" is alive and brilliant on this IFC sketch show. He nails every character. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Lead Actor in a Comedy: FRED ARMISEN, PORTLANDIA - What grew tired after years on "Saturday Night Live" is alive and brilliant on this IFC sketch show. He nails every ... more

Image 46 of 59

NEIL FLYNN, THE MIDDLE - If you only knew Flynn from his years as the oft-sadistic Janitor on "Scrubs," watching one episode of "The Middle" will seem like a revelation. Watch more than one and you'll see one of the best portrayals of a husband, father and harried working stiff anywhere on television. less

NEIL FLYNN, THE MIDDLE - If you only knew Flynn from his years as the oft-sadistic Janitor on "Scrubs," watching one episode of "The Middle" will seem like a revelation. Watch more than one and you'll see one ... more

Image 47 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy: CARRIE BROWNSTEIN, PORTLANDIA - Creating a whole menagerie of wonderfully strange characters, keeping up step-for-step with Fred Armisen, being fearlessly funny AND retaining the rock-star cool you gained as a, well, real-life rock star? Why, that's award worthy right there. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy: CARRIE BROWNSTEIN, PORTLANDIA - Creating a whole menagerie of wonderfully strange characters, keeping up step-for-step with Fred ... more

Image 48 of 59

KATE MCKINNON, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE - Is she the show's current MVP? Quite possibly. I don't know if there's a sketch possible where she could not score laughs.

KATE MCKINNON, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE - Is she the show's current MVP? Quite possibly. I don't know if there's a sketch possible where she could not score laughs.

EDEN SHER, THE MIDDLE - Yes, we're back to "The Middle" again. It's one of the best shows on TV, dammit! And Sher's performances as Sue Heck, the world's biggest optimist is nothing short of miraculous. A misfit teen who fails at nearly everything, but is still willing to try anything is unlike any character I've ever seen on TV before. And it's all Eden Sher. Brilliant. less

EDEN SHER, THE MIDDLE - Yes, we're back to "The Middle" again. It's one of the best shows on TV, dammit! And Sher's performances as Sue Heck, the world's biggest optimist is nothing short of miraculous. A ... more

Image 50 of 59

CECILY STRONG, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE - Much like McKinnon, Strong only got, well, stronger, in her sophomore year on the long-running show. The fact that she has to contend with unfair biases as one of the most attractive cast members ever makes her shine even brighter. Her femininity and good looks only enhance her portrayals. It's just a shame her promotion to the Weekend Update desk cost us any more appearances from "The Girl You Wish You Hadn't Started a Conversation with at a Party." less

CECILY STRONG, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE - Much like McKinnon, Strong only got, well, stronger, in her sophomore year on the long-running show. The fact that she has to contend with unfair biases as one of the most ... more

Image 51 of 59

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy: IKE BARINHOLTZ, THE MINDY PROJECT - Sure, as a writer and producer on "The Mindy Project" Barinholtz can steer the best material his way, but his go-for-broke performance as the lovable (?) and a little bit scary Morgan Tooker is hilarious. He's a Kramer for the new millennium. less

These are C.J.'s alternative picks for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy: IKE BARINHOLTZ, THE MINDY PROJECT - Sure, as a writer and producer on "The Mindy Project" Barinholtz can steer the best material his ... more

Image 52 of 59

ANDRE BRAUGHER, BROOKLYN NINE-NINE - This might seem like a no-brainer. After all, the well-respected veteran already owns two Emmys and critics have been raving about his deadpan work here as the straightlaced gay police captain. Still, the Academy is not well-known for rewarding subtlety, especially in comedy. less

ANDRE BRAUGHER, BROOKLYN NINE-NINE - This might seem like a no-brainer. After all, the well-respected veteran already owns two Emmys and critics have been raving about his deadpan work here as the straightlaced ... more

Image 53 of 59

JO LO TRUGLIO, BROOKLYN NINE-NINE - The veteran of "The State" comedy troupe took this nerdy, oddball sidekick role and ran with it. His unrequited love for a tough-as-nails colleague, a subsequent love affair with an older woman and his foodie habits powered many an episode deliciously. less

JO LO TRUGLIO, BROOKLYN NINE-NINE - The veteran of "The State" comedy troupe took this nerdy, oddball sidekick role and ran with it. His unrequited love for a tough-as-nails colleague, a subsequent love affair ... more

Image 54 of 59

KEEGAN-MICHAEL KEY, KEY & PEELE - It seemed like Key was everywhere this past season: "Fargo"; "The Middle"; "Parks and Recreation"; "Whose Line Is It Anyway?": "Playing House"; etc. But he was never better than on his own Comedy Central show. One of the funniest men on TV. (And just so you know, "supporting actor" is where he and Jordan Peele placed themselves on the ballot.) less

KEEGAN-MICHAEL KEY, KEY & PEELE - It seemed like Key was everywhere this past season: "Fargo"; "The Middle"; "Parks and Recreation"; "Whose Line Is It Anyway?": "Playing House"; etc. But he was never better ... more

Image 55 of 59

TARAN KILLAM, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE - "SNL" might have been dominated by the female cast members in the 39th season, but the always good Killam came into his own, taking over the anchor role once held by Jason Sudeikis, Phil Hartman, Will Ferrell and Dan Aykroyd, among others. less

TARAN KILLAM, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE - "SNL" might have been dominated by the female cast members in the 39th season, but the always good Killam came into his own, taking over the anchor role once held by Jason ... more

Image 56 of 59

LAMORNE MORRIS, NEW GIRL - His "New Girl" character, Winston, has often been criticized for seeming peripheral to the main action with plots that don't gel with those of the other roomates. And a slightly lesser season and return of original roomie Coach didn't help matters. But Morris has always been one of my favorites and his asides and ad-libs, often barely audible, are killer. The fact that he can take polarizing stories like his love for his cat or his decision to become a cop and make them sing is testament to his talents. less

LAMORNE MORRIS, NEW GIRL - His "New Girl" character, Winston, has often been criticized for seeming peripheral to the main action with plots that don't gel with those of the other roomates. And a slightly ... more

Image 57 of 59

ED O'NEILL, MODERN FAMILY - Seriously, when does O'Neill get his due? He, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Sofia Vergara are the only adult cast members without Emmy wins, and even they outnumber him in nominations four to three. Is it because he makes it seem so effortless? This year, he had some of the show's best moments, including during the lead-up to his son's wedding, an occasion that showed he hadn't experienced as much personal growth as we all had thought. What better year for him to win? less

ED O'NEILL, MODERN FAMILY - Seriously, when does O'Neill get his due? He, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Sofia Vergara are the only adult cast members without Emmy wins, and even they outnumber him in nominations ... more

Image 58 of 59

JORDAN PEELE, KEY & PEELE - Peele never got these kind of opportunities to shine when he starred alongside Key on "MAD TV," so he's making up for it now. Sexy vampires, Liam Neesons-loving valets, Barack Obama - what can't he do? less

JORDAN PEELE, KEY & PEELE - Peele never got these kind of opportunities to shine when he starred alongside Key on "MAD TV," so he's making up for it now. Sexy vampires, Liam Neesons-loving valets, Barack Obama ... more

Image 59 of 59

Alternate choices for 2014 Emmy Award nominations

1 / 59

Back to Gallery

More Information

It's time for the 2014 Emmy Award nominations, and television blogger C.J. Lais has a list of some shows and performers he would like to see nominated that are a little off the radar. Click through the slideshow to view these alternative choices by category.